In 1833, the section of the city walls was demolished, to enable the construction of St Leonard's Place.

Bearpark's nursery was leased, while a house and the Bird in Hand pub were demolished, to clear the site.

[3][4] The square lies to the west of the northernmost section of St Leonard's Place, where it meets Bootham.

The railings in front of King's Manor were originally built in 1726 for York Mansion House.

[6] In 1971, the square was pedestrianised, and the York Civic Trust constructed a fountain in front of the statue of Etty.